A Heart for the Kingdom: Luke 9:51-62
This Sunday, we began our Lenten journey by stepping into a new series, The Heart of the King. Pastor Dave opened with a reminder that following Jesus is often not as simple or straightforward as we expect. Just like learning to bake bread—where the process requires patience, surrender, and trust—we are reminded that faith is not about rushing results but learning to trust the process God has laid before us.
The focus of the message came from Luke 9:51–62, where Jesus "resolutely sets out for Jerusalem." Pastor Dave highlighted how, in Luke’s Gospel, Jerusalem is not just a location; it’s the summit of the Gospel story. Over ten chapters, Luke weaves a constant reminder that Jesus is walking intentionally toward the cross. Every step is deliberate. Every decision reflects the heart of a King who chooses sacrifice over comfort, and obedience to the Father’s will over the easier road.
As Jesus journeys toward Jerusalem, we see moments of rejection and misunderstanding. The Samaritans refuse to welcome Him because of deep historical tensions. In the face of rejection, the disciples want to call down fire, but Jesus rebukes them. His Kingdom is not one built on retaliation or force—it’s a Kingdom built on love, grace, and surrender.
The heart of the message came through the three conversations Jesus has along the road:
One man offers to follow Jesus without realizing the cost—Jesus reminds him that following Him means giving up security and comfort.
Another hesitates, wanting to fulfill important cultural obligations first—but Jesus challenges him to put the Kingdom first, even above sacred duties.
A third wants to follow but clings to what he is leaving behind—Jesus calls him to full commitment, with no looking back.
Through it all, Pastor Dave reminded us: Jesus isn’t looking for half-hearted followers. He calls us to radical surrender—not because He wants to take from us, but because He has something far greater for us. His Kingdom isn’t about convenience or comfort. It’s about obedience, trust, and a life shaped by His love.
This Lenten season, the invitation is clear: Will we lay down our expectations and follow where Jesus leads, even when it’s hard? Will we let go of comfort, plans, and fallback options to fully trust in the heart of the King? The journey to the cross is not easy—but it is beautiful. And it’s worth everything.
Where might you be holding back today? What is Jesus asking you to surrender?
Let this Lent be a season of radical “yes” to the One who leads us into true life.
